In this Jack Russell Terrier training lesson we take a look at submissive Urination. Most dog owners are prepared for their canines to have accidents indoors while they are puppies and are in the process of learning jack russell terrier training in terms of housebreaking. However, there is a big difference between a dog having an accident while learning and him suddenly urinating when people try to pet him or greet him when they return home. This is not normal and is a form of fear and submission.

When a Jack let’s go of his bladder when he is greeted or petted by people, he is experiencing a condition that is known as submissive urination which is completely unrelated to housebreaking jack russell training. If this condition has developed your pet is experiencing strong emotions, for example fright, excitement or extreme submission, and the stress of these feelings causes him to relieve himself.

This condition generally occurs among younger dogs and is more commonly seen in females. The two causes of the urination – fright or submission – can be determined by simply studying the situation in which the incidents occur. A canine typically acts submissive when he believes he is being threatened, such as through a scolding or being reprimanded. However, it can also occur when a person is displaying dominant behavior (either knowingly or unknowingly), such as direct eye contact.

That said, keep in mind that a dog may also urinate when they are really excited, so if it is excitement causing it you will notice that they are not displaying submissive behaviors along with the loss of bladder control (i.e. rolling over on their back and exposing their belly).

The following are some jack russell terrier training methods you can put into practice to help you pet overcome the submissive urination problem:

Do not punish or reprimand him for this behavior. This will only make the problem worse.

Keep leaving and returning home very subtle and low key.

Avoid using dominant behavior, such as petting his head (pet under his chin instead), direct eye contact and leaning over him to pet him (bend down to his level instead).

Praise and reward him for good behaviors that will keep his mind off of urinating.

Wait until your jack is calm before you pet and/or greet him.

It may take some time for your dog to get over this problem, but as with all forms of Jack Russell Terrier training you need to be patient, consistent and be very mindful of your dog’s needs.